THE
GOBRECHT
JOURNAL
For Collectors
of the
LIBERTY SEATED COIN SERIES
VOLUME ELEVEN ISSUE #31
AUTUMN
IN THE
SHENANDOAH
LSCC 159
Specializing in Liberty Seated half-dimes and quarter
dollars. Actively soliciting want lists for those hard to find
dates and rare varieties. Modest finder fees. Satisifaction
guaranteed; 10-day return privilege; post paid on all
orders over $200.00.
1842-0 Half Dime, VF 30 (rare above fine) . . $150.00
1844-0 Half Dime (large "O"), XF 45, original dark
tone, condition census coin, has three small digs, very
attractive coin, exceedingly rare above VF. . . . $200.00
1856-P Half Dime, AU 55, 100% fully struck dentils,
strongest strike for this date I've ever seen, original mot-
tled golden tone $250.00
1873/1873/73 NA Dime, AU 50+, triple cut date,
probably finest known, unlisted in Ahwash . . .$250.00
1842-0 Quarter (small date), XF 40, reverse #A-1,
condition census coin, reduced to $1800.00
1842-0 Quarter (large date), MS 60 $650.00
1869-S Quarter, MS-63, original satiny, irridescent
tone, never touched. Immaculate coin, one of four
known uncirculated specimens $2300.00
WANTED: 1875-S Quarter in sharp XF 45/AU 55.
P.O. Box 2071
Alamogordo, NM 88310 (505) 434-3939
OUR PLEDGE
To encourage, promote and dispense numismatic knowledge of Liberty
Seated coins; to cultivate fraternal relations among its members and all
those interested in the science of numismatics.
OFFICERS
John McCloskey President/Editor
Montfort Johnsen Vice President
James Skwareic Secretary-Treasurer
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to the attributions of the
LIBERTY SEATED COIN SERIES.
Printed and Bound
by
Additional copies available $3.50 each, from John McCloskey
No material in this publication
may be reproduced without permission of the authors.
1
GOBRECHT JOURNAL
Official Publication of the
LIBERTY SEATED COLLECTORS CLUB
VOLUME 11 NOVEMBER, 1984 No.31
CONTENTS
Some Thoughts on Liberty Seated Halves: Part II
"With Motto" Dates 1866-1891
By Donald Vettel 3
1869 Seated Dollars
By David H. Cohen 6
Fifth Reverse For 1870-CC Dollar Discovered
By Joseph T. Jaffe 10
On The Cover 11
Rarity Plateaus on Liberty Seated Quarters Revised
By Larry W. Briggs 13
An 1858-0 Shattered Obverse Half Dime
By Al BIythe 14
The Overworked Dies of the New Orleans Mint 1853-1854
By Harry E. Smith 17
Is the 1839-0 Shattered Reverse Dime an R-7 Rarity?
By Al BIythe 21
A Doubled Die 1876-CC Trade Dollar
By John W. McCloskey 24
Those Rare 1859 Mint-State Half Dollars
By Weimar W. White 27
Kroon Wins Ahwash Award for 1984 30
Update on the 1841-0 Doubled Die Quarter
By Kenneth R. Hill 33
At the ANA, Detroit 1984 34
Letters to the Editor 37
Treasurer's Report
SOME THOUGHTS ON LIBERTY SEATED HALVES: PART II
"WITH-MOTTO" DATES 1866 - 1891
by
Donald Vettel
Much has transpired since the publication of Part I of "Some Thoughts
on Seated Halves" last fall. First, it is innportant to note some of the
dialogue over the first article which has appeared in my mail box. Much has
centered around some key omissions and needed clarifications among the
issues In the 1850's. The 1850-O, 1851-0 and 1852-0 were unmentioned and
are certainly not common. My correspondence suggests that the current high
Trends prices are justified or nearly so. The other point made during last
year's LSCC meeting at the San Diego ANA is that choice uncirculated 1851
and 1852 Philadelphia issues are very rare if not impossible. Part of my prob-
lem is that I've never been particularly oriented to MS-63-i- and MS-65
Liberty Seated material. Very little of it exists and, thus, assembling a col-
lection in such condition is only a pipedream. In arguing that pieces dated
1851 and 1852 were overrated, I was referring to MS-60 specimens only.
A second interesting phenomenon concerns the price of Seated halves
and Seated coinage in general. Those who trade heavily in this material
know prices have weakened considerably. In trying to ascertain why, I can
only conclude that dealers who were making the market in Seated coinage
decided not to support the established 1983 levels. Collectors, of course,
should rejoice as this gives us all a second opportunity to pursue our
secret Seated fantasies at prices that will someday seem ridiculously low.
A problem does arise for the collector, however, when lower prices prevail.
There is always the tendency for dealers to withhold choice material for a
better price. You must be a very astute and critical buyer, therefore, when
looking at Seated coinage in the current market. Particularly tough are nice
XF and AU specimens at present Trends prices. To be sure XF and AU coins
are out there but fully 90% of those I've observed at recent shows have had
problems. Problem coins should always be avoided. They have neither
aesthetic or commercial viability.
So much for preliminaries. Let's get on to the format for the following ar-
ticle. Again I will offer pricing information in relation to Trends as of July,
1984. I still think the Coin World staff is doing a terrific job and would par-
ticularly like to compliment Keith Zaner who, I understand, has been mak-
ing the rounds at shows and has been getting first hand information on
even the most esoteric items. I hate to be blunt but Red Book and Coin
Market are outdated when it comes to Seated material. Generally, the Red
Book is 50% below market and Coin Market has remained substantially
unrevised for several years.
This time around, I would like to discuss strike and surface
characteristics as I deal with the individual dates. Several who wrote cor-
rectly noted that placing such information in two different places was in-
convenient and cumbersome.
It can be fairly said that the "with-motto" Seated halves contain a greater
number of better dates and not a few coins with a certain amount of in-
teresting folklore attached. This statement is borne out immediately by the
San Francisco issues of the 1860s and early 1870s. Despite fairly high mint-
ages, all are scarce and decidedly underrated. The 1869-S appears to be the
scarcest coin in this run followed by the 1872-S, 1870-S and 1868-S respec-
tively. All are worth 50% to 100% over current Trends. The 1866-S, 1867-S
and 1871-S are better dates but can usually by found at no more than 20%
over Trends. Strike for these dates is excellent with the exception of 1869-S
and 1870-S which often have poorly struck centers and weak stars on the
obverse.
The Philadelphia issues in the late 1860s and early 1870s have often
been promoted and appear slightly overrated. There is a sleeper here,
however, and it is the 1870 issue. Almost all collectors surveyed noted that
this is a tough coin worth 50% over Trends. The strike for these issues is
uniformly excellent.
Folklore enters the picture when our attention turns to the 1870-CC
issue. A well-circulated rumor tells of a Louisiana man who has avidly
hoarded this date over many years. The tale is so well known that many a
dealer is skittish about paying what this coin may well be worth in higher
circulated grades. My feelings are that this is a very rare date in grades be-
tween Good and AU. Auction records indicate only 18 verifiable sales of dif-
ferent specimens in the last seven years in grades between F and AU. Odd-
ly, there are a fair number of uncirculated coins around. Fines must be
worth $1,000 with XFs commanding at least five times that much. Strike is
also a consideration. The few pieces I've seen are very weakly struck on the
obverse. This comment is more or less true for all the "CC" issues with the
1876-CC and 1877-CC probably having the best strike. However, the value of
the uncirculated 1870-CC coins must be placed in the $10,000 and up
category as there are just too few circulated coins to go around. In summary,
1870-CC is a monster coin above VG. AG's plus Goods are scarce but ob-
tainable at current levels. The 1871-CC and 1872-CC are somewhat over-
rated and can be bought easily at 25% below Trends.
One of the scarcest and most unappreciated "no-motto" Seated halves
is the 1853-0. 1 also feel strongly that the 1873-S and 1874-S have been "un-
discovered" because of their apparent type coin status. The 1873-S is
perhaps a bit tougher in lower grades but the 1874-S seems nearly impossi-
ble in full XF or AU. Both coins come well struck and warrant a price double
current Trends across the board.
Two other issues which have been overlooked are the 1873 and 1873-CC
"No arrows" issues. Both coins warrant a premium of 25% over Trends,
even more if well struck. Conversely, the 1873, 1873-CC and 1874 with ar-
rows are vastly overrated and are available in all grades. The jury is out on
the 1874-CC. Diverse opinions lead me to believe that it is priced properly at
current levels. In higher grades (XF), the issue is very scarce, if not rare, and
worth around $1,000. The 1873 and 1874 with arrows issues are well struck
for the Philadelphia mint and poorly struck for the Carson City mint.
The 1875 through 1877 issues afford the type collector with his best op-
portunity to pick up nicely struck specimens of all three mints at common
date prices. The exception here is the lightly regarded and undervalued
1875-CC. It is infrequently auctioned and all those surveyed regarded the
coin as "scarce" and difficult to locate fully struck. It is definitely tougher
4
than the 1876-CC, especially in better grades.
Followers of this article should take note, however, that the 1875 to 1877
Seated halves are the only really common "with-motto" type coins. Thus,
as a type, the "with -motto" coins must be regarded as much tougher than
the "no-motto" coins. This argument was also made for the "with-motto"
Seated dollars discussed in my article in Issue #24. Current price listings
showing the "No-Motto" coin as tougher are simply reflecting the conven-
tional wisdom that "older is rarer" and clearly show no effort to analyze
the relative availability of "no-motto" versus "with -motto" Seated halves.
The date 1878 provides a wide divergence in scarcity for the three mints.
Initially, we note the Philadelphia Issue poses no problems and the Carson
City issue is correctly regarded as a scarce to rare coin warranting current
Trend prices.
I do wish to note, however, that the 1878-CC is much easier to locate in
better grades than the 1870-CC. Then comes the king of the Seated halves
and one of the most interesting numismatic rarities, the 1878-S. Its small
mintage of 12,000 suggests a rare coin but this piece is nearly impossible
above AG. As with the 1870-CC, more mint state examples exist than do
coins grading VG through AU. Only eight to ten auction appearances can
be verified for this date in higher circulated grades during recent years. We
can only speculate as to what Good to Uncirculated 1878-S halves are real-
ly worth. The mystery, of course, is why so few pieces have survived. It is
fair to estimate that only fifty pieces exist above AG. Probably a large
number were melted as this is the last San Francisco half and it was this
year that the mint embarked on its heavy mintage of Silver Dollars. All 1878
issues show some weakness of strike especially on the eagle's talons.
The 1879 through 1890 dates with their tiny mintages loom as a for-
midable task for a collector seeking nice lower and middle grade circulated
pieces. AU, Uncirculated and Proof grades, however, do not present a
challenge and Trends values are about 25% too high. Contributors to this
article rate the 1886 as the toughest date closely followed by the 1885
and 1884. Probably, the 1879 and 1890 dates are the most available. If pay-
ing Trends for G to XF pieces, insist on original, defect-free coins. Striking
characteristics vary but the head and obverse stars sometimes are weak
and the eagle's left leg and talons are not always bold. The well-struck 1891
is gradually being recognized as a very tough coin in better grades. XF
through uncirculated examples are underrated by 25% to 50%.
A summary overview of the Seated half dollar series suggests several
conclusions. First, the "with-motto" coins are generally tougher than the
"no-motto" variety. Perhaps the most underrated pieces are among the
mint marked "with arrows" coins, principally the 1873-S and 1874-S. "S"
and "CC" mints generally are very tough while several Philadelphia issues
minted in the 1860s and 1880s seem overrated, especially in higher grades.
The 1855-S, 1870-CC and 1878-S are clearly the keys of this series. When
nice specimens appear, they will command higher prices.
Overall, the series with its longevity and many varieties provides a
challenging and fascinating undertaking. It has been a pleasure studying
and writing about Seated halves. Now let's see if we can locate a few
before the small supply of premium pieces dries up!
5
1869 SEATED DOLLARS
by
David H. Cohen
Anyone who has actively studied die varieties for Seated coins will even-
tually be led to the conclusion that the entire design for Seated coins was
hubbed into the dies by 1840. For Seated dollars in particular this nneans
that the only way to tell one die from another is by the location of the date
on the obverse and the location of the mintmark on the reverse. A few ex-
ceptions such as the quad-stripe variety of 1844 and the chin whiskers
variety of 1853 have been reported in the journal. Other varieties can be
identified by the presence of die cracks, polish marks, die pits or other
damage to the surface of the dies. But very few varieties can be identified
by the presence of die marks or cracks. The only way to identify most
varieties is by recording the location of the date and mintmark in relation to
the rest of the fixed design and denticles.
Because of the limited number of Seated dollars minted, there are very
few varieties in this series. However, I have found that most die varieties
can be identified from two points in the design in relation to the number
"1". The distance in millimeters of the number "1" can be measured from
the base of the rock to the top of the upright of the "1". The edge of the left
serif of the "1" can also be related to the denticle below. A line can be
drawn along the edge of the left serif of the "1" to the point where it in-
tersects the denticle below. The line must be drawn perpendicular to the
base of the rock. This line will strike the denticle area, either between den-
ticles, at the upper edge of a denticle, near the center of a denticle or at the
lower edge of a denticle. I have found that these two features are sufficient
to identify die varieties of a particular date. I suspect that there will be ex-
ceptions but I believe that they will be few and far between.
By 1869, the Civil War had been over for several years and the demand for
silver dollars was increasing. Mintage records indicate that 424,300 pieces
were struck in 1869, the largest number of Seated dollars struck up to that
date except for the 1860-O date. I have identified five varieties for the 1869
dollar with the assistance of other people. Characteristics of the varieties
are given below.
Variety 1
Recut 1 and 8 in date. I believe this to be the same variety as described
by Kenneth Hill in Issue #27 of the journal. Top of the upright of the "1" is
1.0mm below the base of the rock. The date slopes slightly downward. The
left edge of the serif of the "1" over the lower edge of a denticle. The tip of
the shield is over the left side of the upright of the "1". The gap between
the numbers 8 and 6 is centered over the space between two denticles. The
gap between the numbers 6 and 9 is centered over the space between two
denticles.
6
Variety 1
Variety 2
There are no distinguishing marks on this variety that I can find. Top of
the upright of the "1" is 1.0mm below the base of the rock. The left edge of
the serif of the "1" over the lower edge of a denticle. The tip of the shield is
over the upper left serif of the "1". The gap between the numbers 8 and 6 is
centered over the space between two denticles. The gap between the
numbers 6 and 9 is centered over the space between two denticles.
7
Variety 3
This variety has some marks below the upright of the "1" next to the den-
ticles. I would like to call them footprint marks of the "1". Top of the upright
of the "1" is 1.0mm below the base of the rock. The left edge of the serif of
the "1" over the center of a denticle. The tip of the shield is over the left
edge of the upright of the "1". The gap between the numbers 8 and 6 is
centered over a denticle. The gap between the numbers 6 and 9 is centered
over a denticle.
Variety 4
This is a Proof specimen that is located at the Smithsonian Institution in
Washington D.C. I was able to photograph this piece through the kind
cooperation of Elvira Clain-Stefanelli. Top of the upright of the "1" is just
unden.Omm below the base of the rock. The left edge of the serif of the "1"
over the space between two denticles. The tip of the shield is over the up-
per left serif of the "1". The gap between the numbers 8 and 6 is centered
over the space between two denticles. The gap between the numbers 6 and
9 is centered over the space between two denticles.
8
Variety 4
Variety 5
This is the J. P. Morgan coin which is located at the American
Numismatic Society in New Yorl< City. I would like to thank Richard Doty at
ANS for his cooperation in allowing me to photograph the Society's collec-
tion. This is a "No questions asked" proof. Mr. Doty explained to me that
many, many years before, while the coin was being displayed under hot
lights on a black tray, the temperature got too hot leaving the black residue
on the coin. Top of the upright of the "1" is just over 1.0mm below the base
of the rock. The date slopes slightly upward. The left edge of the serif of the
"1" over the upper edge of a denticle. The tip of the shield is over the left
side of the upright of the "1". The gap between the numbers 8 and 6 is
centered over a denticle. The gap between the numbers 6 and 9 is centered
over a denticle.
9
FIFTH REVERSE FOR 1870-CC DOLLAR DISCOVERED
by
Joseph T. Jaffe
Recently upon examining my new purchases I discovered a slightly
unusual mintmark on an 1870-CC dollar that did not match the four
reverses described for this date by John Kroon in Issue #23 of the journal.
My first reaction was panic that someone might have added a mintmark to
the specimen that I had purchased. However, upon closer examination I
determined the coin to be genuine. To be on the safe side I showed the coin
to a few Seated experts, two major Eastern Seated dealers. They both con-
firmed that the coin was indeed genuine but didn't get too excited about
the new mintmark position that the coin possessed.
I am a small dealer specializing in Liberty Seated material and I did get
excited about the discovery of a new reverse for the 1870-CC dollar. I con-
sulted my library of Gobrecht journals and compared my piece with the pic-
tures of the other four reverses illustrated in Issue #23. The mintmark posi-
tion is not really a radical departure from the other four positions. For the
new Reverse 5 the serif of the left C is positioned to the left of the feather
tip. The right edge of the left C would just miss touching the imaginary line
that connects the feather tip with the right edge of the E in ONE. The two
10
C's are widely spaced with the right C about 80% left of the crotch between
the feather and the stem. None of the other four reverses match this mint-
mark positioning.
One other interesting feature of Reverse 5 is the die scratches that run
through the reverse shield. These scratches appear as curious raised lines
that run at a diagonal under the vertical stripes in the shield.
The following listing is of coins which are distinctive in their overall quality. These
feature attractive, original surfaces and have not been cleaned. Each coin is
guaranteed to please.
HALF DIME
1859 AU-55Nice $110.00
DIMES
1873 No ArrAU-55 Toned 80.00
1873 Arrows VF-30 70.00
1875-CC AB EF-45 Lustre 35.00
TWENTY CENTS
1875 CC VF-30 Nice 195.00
QUARTERS
1854 EF-45 Sharp 115.00
1859 EF-40 52.00
1888-S VF-30 Choice 45.00
HALF DOLLARS
1843 AU-55 Gorgeous $185.00
1851-0 AU-55 P/L reverse 240.00
1858-0 AU-55 180.00
1865 Over 1865 AU-55 240.00
1872 EF-45 Ex '84 ANA 65.00
1872 AU-50 130.00
1873-CC NoArrVF-20Nice 210.00
1874 Sm Arr VF-30 Scarce ... 140.00
1876- CC EF-40 Medium CC 75.00
1877- 8 EF-45 Micro S Typel . . . 70.00
1890 EF-40 Ex '84 ANA 360.00
DOLLARS
1 870 VF-20 Ex '84 AN A 21 0.00
1876-S Trade EF-45 Nice coin . . 165.00
All coins nnay be returned within 14 days of invoice for a full refund. Payment must
accompany order. Personal checks must clear. Please include $2.00 postage and in-
surance on orders under $100.00.
David W. Lange LSCC #488
P.O. Box 3497G
San Francisco, CA 94119
415-872-0295
(6:00-9:00 p.m. Pacific Time)
ON THE COVER
The cover picture for this year shows an uncirculated example of the
1847/6 half dollar which was brought to last summer's Annual Meeting of
LSCC by Larry Briggs. The picture was taken at the ANA Convention in
Detroit and sent along for presentation on the cover of the Journal. The
coin has been sold by Larry to an Ohio collector who specializes in half
dollars.
11
CLASSICAL AMERICAN COINS
P.O. BOX 9516
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 98109
HALF DIMES
1840 ND VF-30 Light toning and problem free; some luster $ 35
1849 AU-50 Choice blue and gold toning; repunched date 115
1857- 0 XF-40 Strong strike and totally original 45
1860 O VF-20 Problem free for the grade 22
1873 AU-55 Attractively toned over original surfaces 80
DIMES
1837 XF-45 A choice type coin with very attractive surfaces 350
1838 AU-50 Lg stars; Totally original with both luster and eye appeal .... 125
1842- 0 XF-40 An original XF with light toning 78
1844 AU-50 A coin with a strong strike, great luster, and eye appeal 425
1847 XF-40 Beautiful old time toning in shades of violet and gold 120
18510 AU-50 Lusterous and choice for the grade 235
1853 XF-40 No arrows. A perfect coin for the grade with some luster 180
1859- 0 XF-40 Eye appealing toning over original surfaces 68
1866- S VF-30 Very, very close to XF. Problem free natural surfaces 80
1867- S XF-40 Problem free for the grade 148
1872-S XF-45 Superb surfaces and strike, totally original 210
1876 AU-55 Beautifully toned in gold and blue over problem free surfaces 70
1890 XF-45 Sharply struck with some luster 30
1890 AU-50 A perfect type coin with good luster and eye appeal 52
QUARTERS
1843 0 F-12 Small O. No problems, just honest wear 43
1855 VF-30 Very close to a full XF; retains some luster 38
1860- O XF-40 An attractive lusterous coin 90
1875- CC VF-20 Problem free for the grade 195
1876- S AU-55 An eye appealing borderline Unc with superb cartwheel luster. .150
HALVES
1843- 0 XF-40 Sharply struck with natural surfaces 65
1858- S AU-50 A totally original coin with strong cartwheel luster 240
1861- S AU-50 Needle sharp strike with attractively toned surfaces 130
1868- S XF-45 Lusterous with choice surfaces and toning 90
1870-S VF-30 Problem free and attractive for the grade 55
1885 XF-45 Choicest possible XF-AU. Original and eye appealing 470
All coins are graded by a strict adherence to ANA standards, and conne with a two
week return privilege. Some help with postage on orders under $50 is appreciated. In
order to sell I nnust buy and am seriously interested in purchasing all XF and AU (both
the common and the scarce) seated material that is problem free for the grade.
Premiums will be paid for those pieces that possess original surfaces and attractive
toning.
Bob LSCC *440
(206) 283-1527 Evenings until 11:30 p.m.
12
RARITY PLATEAUS ON LIBERTY SEATED
QUARTERS REVISED
by
Larry W. Briggs
It has been more than eight years since Mel Hatfield's article " A Rarity
Scale on Liberty Seated Quarters" was published in Issue #6 of the Jour-
nal. I felt it was time to revise this rarity scale based upon my experience
with the series.
For the past twenty five years I have had a profound interest in the
Liberty Seated quarter series. It seems odd that a series with so many
scarce and rare dates can go unnoticed or overlooked by so many collect-
ors. In today's market many coins that aren't really rare are sold for far
more than many of the rare low mintage Seated quarters. For the last few
years I have been studying the quarter series as closely as one can
without the availability of any written reference text. Since no reference
is available I have decided to take my knowledge of the quarters and put
it into words. For the last two years I have been working on a reference
text for the Liberty Seated quarter series. From time to time I hope to
share some excerpts of this work with LSCC members.
In July 1976 Mel Hatfield presented his listing of the rarest dates in the
series. I would now like to revise this listing according to what I feel are
more accurate plateaus of rarity. Before going any further however, I
would like to answer some questions before they arise. My plateaus will
include only collectables of the series. I consider three issues to be non-
collectable. These three issues are the 1842 Small Date Philadelphia quar-
ter (proof only) of which approximately seven pieces are known, the 1866
transitional quarter of which only one was struck, and the 1873-CC No
Arrows quarter of which there are approximately three known. I also do
not include any varieties such as large or small mintmarks, date or mint-
mark position, or die states. Also proof examples of any of the dates
listed are excluded. At this point I would like to clarify a longstanding
misconception. The 1873 Closed 3 No Arrows was listed at one time as
having a mintage of only 1000 pieces. To my knowledge this statement
has never been properly corrected in the Journal. The mintage for the
1873 Closed 3 No Arrows quarter should be listed as 40,600.
My plateau ratings resulting from my findings and studies over the past
twenty five years are as follows:
Plateau 1: 1870-CC
Plateau 2: 1871-CC, 1873-CC With Arrows, 1872-S, 1871-S
Plateau 3: 1866, 1849-0, 1886, 1869
Plateau 4: 1842-0 Small Date, 1866-S, 1851-0, 1860-S, 1872-CC
Your comments and thoughts on this revised rarity rating are invited.
13
AN 1858-0 SHATTERED OBVERSE HALF DIME
by
Al BIythe
The recent acquisition of an 1858-0 half dime from a mail order dealer
provided some surprises when I received it. After looking it over through a
lOx loupe to determine whether it was correctly represented as to grade, I
was greeted with a significant die break network on the obverse. This sent
me to higher magnification sources to help me to describe in writing what I
saw. These comments follow, but first I must say that I believe this par-
ticular half dime is not one of the varieties described in Valentine by any of
the contributor's to that volume.
A major die break, as shown In the photograph of this coin, runs from the
rim at 12 o'clock through Liberty's forehead and face through the center of
her neck and between the breasts. At this point, it becomes a minor crack
and ends on the right leg midway to the thigh.
Another break originates at 12 o'clock and goes between Star 7 and
Liberty's head to the left shoulder then out into the field. It then comes
back through the left arm between the shoulder and elbow and ends in the
folds of the gown. There is a minor crack from Star 7 to the rim. Also, at 1
o'clock, there Is a minor crack from the rim through a denticle and to the
top two points of Star 8 through the cap to the point of Star 8 closest to the
cap.
1858-0 Half Dime with Die Crack Through Forehead
14
The reverse of this coin has a barely noticeable die crack between the
second S in STATES and the O in OF. A large round O mintmark is centered
above the bow and measures 1.2mm, tilting slightly left.
The pictures of the 1858-0 half dime were taken by Bill Fivaz.
Mintmark on 1858-0 Half Dinne
LET'S TRADE
I need Seated Quarters, any date. Common dates should be XF-AU,
scarce and rare dates VF-AU. I have available for trade:
HALF DIMES
DIMES
1871S
VF-35 Choice
1884
18728
Below XF-40 Choice
1890-8
DIMES
HALVES
1840
Drapery F-15 Choice
1870-8
1841
AU-55 Razor Sharp
1871-CC
1850-O
F-15 Choice
1852
XF-45 Choice
DOLLARS
18570
VF-30
1866
AU-50 Proofiike
XF-40
AU-50 Razor Sharp
VG-10/F-12
F-12/15
TOM CONNERY
USSPI, 400 Renaissance Center, Suite 500
Detroit, Michigan 48243 • Phone (313) 646-8940 evenings
15
LARRY BRIGGS RARE COINS
QUARTERS
1842-0 Small date, G/VG, A-2 Rev S330
1842-0 Small Date, VG, A-2 Rev 400
1842-0 Small Date, VG/F, A-1 Rev . 575
1842-0 Small Date, F, A-1 Rev 800
1845 5 over 5, Choice AU 165
1847-0 AU - Perfect Reverse 350
1849-0 AG, marks 175
1849-0 AG/G 275
1849-0 Full good 375
1849-0 VG/F 625
1849-0 VF 1350
1852-0 G/VG 135
1852-0 Fine 335
1852-0 F/VF 475
1853 3 over2, NoArr. VF 400
1853 3over4, Arr. &Rays, VF 225
1854-0 HugeO. VG 225
1854- 0 HugeO, VF 400
1855- S Choice XF 350
1855- 0 VF cleaned 150
1856- S S over s, choice XF+ with
retooled obverse shield 700
1857- S Choice XF-i- 500
1860-S VF 450
1862-S XF+ toned 350
1863 XF, mark on head 95
1864-S AG-f- nice 125
1864- S Choice Fine 325
1865- S VF. mark on rim 245
1866 Fine, cleaned long ago 275
1866 XF 600
1866- S VG/F. full LIBERTY 265
1866-S Choice Fine 325
1867 Full good 100
1867 Fine 200
QUARTERS
1867-S Fine, cleaned S155
1867- S Fine, nice 190
1868 Fine 175
1868- S XF cleaned 200
1869 VF 400
1869- S XF 400
1870- CC AG/G nice 1300
1870-CC VG 1850
1870- CC Fine, papers 2500
1871- S Choice Fine 400
1871- CC VF, extremely rare 1850
1872 XF 165
1872- S VG/AG 145
1872-S Choice Fine 450
1872- CC Choice Fine, very rare 550
1873 No Arr, Open 3, XF 165
1873 NoArr. Closed 3, XF 275
1873- CC Arrows, Choice VF/XF 2250
1875-CC Type 1 , choice Fine 125
1875-CC Type 2, XF/AU 500
1886 XF 400
HALVES
1840 Choice AU/UNC. nice S150
1846-0 6 over 5, VG 350
1850 VG, mark by 5th star 100
1855 5 over 4, XF 400
1855-S G/VG 340
DOLLAR
1850 AU prooflike S1275
TRADE DOLLAR
1875-S SoverCCXF S475
LARRY BRIGGS RARE COINS
P.O. Box 187 • Lima. Ohio 45802
Telephone (419)228-2285 days. (419)229-5609 nights
WANT LISTS SOLICITED - OTHER COINS IN STOCK
14 Day Return Privilege
Approval Service With Reference
16
THE OVERWORKED DIES OF THE NEW ORLEANS MINT
1853 - 1854
by
Harry E. Smith
Mintage figures at the New Orleans mint are relatively small when com-
pared to those at the Philadelphia mint for the same years. Yet there is in-
creasing evidence that the New Orleans mint used an unusually small
number of dies to meet its production figures. This is evidenced by the
many subtle and sometimes spectacular die breaks and recuttings seen on
New Orleans coins for the years 1853 and 1854. By demonstration I will
discuss the New Orleans coins I have seen or own whose dies were pushed
to the limit of usefullness.
HALF DIMES - About half of the 1853-0 half dimes I've seen have a com-
mon weakness in the die to the right of the 3 in the date. Die cracks extend
from either the outside upper or lower curves of the 3 into the rim. One
piece that I own, besides having the die crack, has a "V" shaped cud from
the base of the rock into the top of the 3. There is also a die crack running
from the top of the 8 through the upper bar of the 5, on into the upper ball of
the 3 and then extending down the right side of the 3. This damage to the
obverse die probably occurred from clashed dies, as the reverse of my coin
shows heavy clash marks, including the top of the date with no evidence of
a piece of the die missing by the 3. I have not seen an 1853-0 half dime
with the above described cud that did not also have a clash marked
reverse.
17
DIMES - I have not personally seen any New Orleans dimes of this era
that were struck fronn overworked dies. However, Al BIythe reported an
1854-0 dinne with heavy obverse die cracks running fronn stars 7 through 13
and then on through the date in Issue #29 of the journal. Mr. BIythe's coin
also has many reverse rim cuds and is proof that the dime dies were used
to the limit of their endurance.
QUARTERS - There are many examples of 1853-0 quarters that I have
seen that were struck from recut dies. One 1853-0 quarter that I own has a
fully recut date, arrows and stars, with the stars looking as if a small star
was laid over a much larger one. The reverse of this coin shows such heavy
recutting of some letters and rays that the field areas near the recuttings
are almost even with the uppermost surfaces of the letters and rays.
Another 1853-0 quarter, this one with heavy recuttings and circular obverse
die polishing marks, is described and pictured in Issue #25 of the journal.
The most easily recognized recut New Orleans coin of this era is the
1854-0 Huge O quarter. This variety typically comes with the stars and
devices on the obverse recut. The mintmark is crudely recut on the reverse
giving it a wide and thick appearance. The tops of the R and D in QUAR.
DOL. are polished away as some kind of excessive polishing was used to
repair damage in the remaking of the mintmark.
HALF DOLLARS - I have seen several 1853-0 halves with recuttings in
various areas of the date, stars, letters and devices. Some pieces I've seen
even have the rays recut, most usually those under and around the eagle's
right wing. The most spectacular recutting of this date I have seen was
reported by Jim Snell and pictured in Issue #9 of the journal.
An 1854-0 half that I purchased recently has the obverse almost totally
recut, including the date, and is very similar to Mr. Snell's coin. However,
my coin has many horizontal die scratches in the field between the
numerals of the date, even inside the upper loop of the 8. These lines may
18
be crude polishing marks to repair some type of die damage. The denticles
on the obverse appear to have another set of denticles under them that are
shifted into the gaps between each denticle. The reverse die used to strike
this coin appears to have been in better shape than its obverse counterpart.
There are some minor recuttings of the eagle's wings, a very small die crack
from the top of the L to the F in HALF and another die crack extending from
the tip of the middle arrowhead out into the field.
Another example of an 1854-0 half dollar demonstrates the severe prob-
lems that the mint was having in the preparation of dies during this era.
For this variety all four digits in the date are recut and many die scratches
can be seen running through the area of the date. More dramatic however,
is the damage to the dies that occurs between the flag and the lower loop
of the 5 and in the area within the triangle of the number 4. This variety has
all thirteen stars on the obverse doubled and several die scratches that run
under Liberty's chin. The reverse of this coin shows no recutting at all and
is more typical of the dies seen a few years later in the series.
As you can see there are many examples of overworked New Orleans
dies in just these two years. Collecting these examples is basically inex-
pensive with an abundant supply of specimens available to the interested
collector. This type of activity can provide many hours of enjoyment in try-
ing to put together a progressive set of die deterioration coins. Any com-
ments or news of other major die deteriorations are welcome.
The pictures of the three New Orleans coins in this article were taken by
Don Slouffman at Paramount Rare Coin Company in Englewood, Ohio
19
QUARTERS
1841 FINE-1 2, nice full Fine S68
1841-0 VG-10, dark toning 19
1843-0 FINE-12, slightly rough 27
1843- 0 VF-25, sharp but cleaned 65
1844- 0 VG-10, even gray toning 13
1844-0 VG-10, nearly Fine 15
1844-0 FINE-12. a decent fine 18
1847 FINE-1 5, dark gray toning 17
1847-0 GOOD-4, a few obverse spots 18
1847-0 VG-1G, nearly fine, cleaned . 25
1848 VG-8, no problems 33
1848 FINE-12, old cleaning 50
1849 GOOD-4. two minor obv. spots 13
1849-0 VG-8, cleaned 395
1849- 0 VG-8. cleaned long ago 460
1850- 0 VF-25. dark toning 29
1855-S VG-8, cleaned & rough 28
1859-0 VF-30, super nice coin 62
186G-S VG-8, left rev. rim weak 95
1866- S VF-25. two obverse nicks 350
1867- S FINE-12, obverse rim nick 155
1867-S FINE-12, two obverse spots 165
1870 VG-10, natural toning 65
1870-CC VG-8, uneven dark toning.
reverse scratch outlining
eagle's left wing & neck. . . . 1750
1873 NA, Open 3 VG-8 38
1873 NA, Closed 3, GOOD-4 65
1875-CC FINE-12. a few minor marks . 95
1877-CC VF-20, nicely toned 20
HALVES
1840 Sm. Letters, VF-20, gray toning $45
1841-0 EF-40, cleaned 60
1842 Small Date GOOD-6 29
1845 GOOD-6, one tiny obv. nick 21
1846-0 GOOD-6, gray toning 17
1849 EF-45. cleaned 65
1856 EF-45. old cleaning 58
1858 VF-20, E slightly weak 30
1858-0 EF-40, very dark 45
1858- S FINE-15. minor rev. scratch 33
1859- 0 EF-45. nice gold toning 67
1859-S GOOD-6, no problems 17
1861 EF-40. very dark rust toning ...49
1861-0 EF-40, cleaned 45
1861-S VG-8. no problems 20
1863- S VF-20, Els weak 32
1864 EF-4G. old cleaning but nice . 98
1864- S EF-40. nice sharp coin 63
1865- S EF-40. nice sharp coin 55
1866 VG-8. nice 20
1867- S EF-40, nice sharp coin 55
1868- S EF-40, old cleaning 58
1869 EF-45, steel gray color 65
1875 VF-20, natural toning 29
1876 VG-10, many small nicks 18
1876 EF-45. steel gray 58
1877-CC EF-45. sharp & attractive 58
1877-S VG-10. nearly fine 23
1877-S EF-45. sharp but cleaned 54
BOB FOSTER LSCC # 239
7521 PEAR TREE LANE
FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76133
Telephone (817) 292-2954
1. Full 14 day return privilege.
2. Orders over $50 sent post paid.
3. Approval service to fanniliar parties. LSCC members only!
4. WANTED: Seated Halves, common date uncleaned, full rim GOOD
with NO problems. Paying $9.50 each.
20
IS THE 1839 0 SHATTERED REVERSE DIME AN R-7 RARITY?
by
A! BIythe
Several years ago, a personal challenge was created for me as a result of
a review of my copy of the Ahwash Encyclopedia on Seated Dimes. In par-
ticular, I became intrigued by the plate coin displaying the A-6 shattered
reverse on the 1839-0 dime. For me it opened new vistas and created an in-
satiable curiosity, and a persistent search which has not always been fruit-
ful but which has been rewarding. The reward has been in terms of
knowledge gained as a result of the process.
First Die State
Few Breaks Visible
Third Die State
Heavy Cracks Visible
X
Second Die State
Cracks Clearly Defined
Fourth Die State
Die Breaking Up
21
There have been previous articles written on the A-6 1839-0 dime. At the
time the Encyclopedia was published, the A-6 was described as Unique in
UNC, if one existed. Additionally, Kam assigned a low R-7 for circulated
coins of this variety and only two had been seen at that time.
The purpose of this article is twofold: (1) To indicate that I have personal
knowledge of at least eight specimens owned by LSCC members and (2) to
demonstrate through the visual medium the progression of a die breaking
up.
The four specimens that I own grade from F to XF, and range from the
early beginning of the die break (1) through a late die state (4). This
deterioration is illustrated in the accompanying photographs. Each has a
die crack network of varying intensity that fits the description in the
Ahwash book, i.e., a crack from I in UNITED to the wreath and up to the S in
STATES, to denticle and going on upward to T in STATES around to M in
AMERICA up to the denticle - from the denticle through C in AMERICA to
wreath, to bottom of ribbon through to the left side of the wreath.
Additional specimens that I have seen and that are owned by other LSCC
members bracket either end of the progression herein described. One coin
which graded Fine showed the barely discernible beginnings of the die
breaks, while the other which appeared to grade AU had the massive shat-
tering at the 2 o'clock position.
There is probably no way of knowing how many other circulated
specimens of the 1839-0 A-6 dime may have survived the 145 years since it
was minted. I do know that the early efforts of Ahwash and McCloskey, and
the plate coin in the Encyclopedia provided me with a fascination about this
variety which appears to be unending.
The rarity rating of "Unique" perhaps still stands as it applies to an UNC
of this variety. Maybe one exists in a collection somewhere! Time as well
as investigation by people with interests like mine may prove that the low
R-7 rating assigned this coin in circulated condition is too high. Additional
time and searching will tell. At this time, I would suggest that the A-6
1839-0 dime is scarce in any grade and rare above XF. Comments are
welcome.
The pictures of the 1839-0 dimes were taken by Bill Fivaz.
Member of A.N. A. - M.S.N.S. - L.S.C.C. - Penn-Ohio
P.O. Box 68
Telephone 313-582-3939
Dearborn, Mich. 48121
22
MCI
All coins as stated
ONE of a kind
HALF DOLLARS
1853 XF-40, original $ 185
1879 VG-10, rare 265
GOBRECHT DOLLARS
1836 F-12, baggie $1375
1836 XF45/45 3750
SEATED DOLLARS
1840 AU-50 baggie $ 400
1840 F-12 175
1844 F-15 210
1844 XF40/45, nice 525
1845 VG-8 185
1845 F12/15 235
1845 XF40/40 475
1848 VF35/XF40, rim spot 365
1849 VF30/35 325
1850 XF40/40ANACS 1200
1850-0 AG-3 110
1850-0 F15/VF20 toned 420
1850-0 XF40/45 gold toning 975
1851 CALL FOR PRICE
1853 XF40/40 385
1854 VF35/XF40, very rare 1475
1855 F15/VF20 795
1855 XF40/45 original 1350
1858 AU50/50 ANACS CALL FOR PRICE
1858 MS60/60 CALL FOR PRICE
SEATED DOLLARS
1860 VF35/XF40 rare S 575
1860-0 XF40/45 nice 295
1860-0 AU50/50 395
1861 VF25/25 525
1861 AU50/50 blue toning 650
1862 G-6 300
1863 VF20/30 310
1863 XF40/45 410
1863 AU55/55 900
1864 F12/12 210
1864 AU50/50 Prooflil<e 550
1865 VF20/20 180
1866 XF40/AU50 335
1869 AG-3 45
1870- CC VF-20, one mark 230
1871 G-4 rim marks 45
1871- CC VG8/F12 1300
1871- CC F15/VF25 2300
1872- S F15/VF25 475
1872-CC F15/VF20 1075
1872- CC VF30/30 ANACS, light initials 1375
1873 F12/VF20 155
1873 F15/VF25 200
1873- CC VF30/XF45 4375
TRADE DOLLARS
1875-S VF35/35 counterstamped
A.C.ARNOLD S 43
Terms - Full 10 Day Return Privilege.
Bank Check or Allow 14 Days for Personal Check to Clear.
Hours 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
MILL COIN INVESTMENTS
P.O. BOX 847
HASTINGS, FLORIDA 32045
Telephone (904) 692-1846
23
A DOUBLED DIE 1876-CC TRADE DOLLAR
by
John W. McCloskey
Shown below are pictures of an 1876-CC Trade Dollar with a doubled die
reverse. This coin grades a nice VF-30 and was brought to the recent ANA
Convention in Detroit by dealer Jack Beymer. The piece shows strong doub-
ling through many areas of the design but the error is particularly evident along
the lower edge of the right wing and through the olive branch just below the
wing. The earlier image of the right wing extends into an upper leaf and bud
and is so strong that it appears to be part of the design. The image of an
earlier branch can be seen running through two lower leaves and out into the
field over the letters IN with the remains of a bud filling the gap between the
upper serifs of the N and E. The strength of the previous design leaves little
doubt that this in indeed an error reverse.
Another interesting feature of this coin is the area through the letters in E
PLURIBUS UNUM on the scroll. The remains of earlier letters can be seen
throughout the motto with the upper serifs of the previous letters running
right through the center of the motto. Remains of the earlier design can also
be seen below the eagle's mouth and through the letters R and N in the
word GRAINS.
1876-CC Trade Dollar with Doubled Die Reverse.
24
The two C's in the mintmark on this variety measure 1.2mm tall and 0.8mm
wide. The left C is centered under the lower serif of the S in GRAINS and over
the space between E and D. The right C is centered under the comma and
over the upright of the D. The reverse is the type I variety with the berry con-
tained within the right claw.
Has anyone seen another example of this interesting doubled die variety?
The strength of the earlier images would make this variety easy to recognize
even for a well worn specimen.
The pictures of the 1876-CC doubled die Trade Dollar were taken by
Marilyn Tiernan at Coin World.
1876-CC Trade Dollar showing Doublinq throuah F
PLURIBUSUNUM. ^
25
BETTER DATES #3
I have many new coins listed here. I feel you will find my grading
and prices the most accurate and competitive around. All offers of
cash and/or better date Seated coins will be considered, especially
key date quarters. Want lists solicited. Extended payment plans
available.
HALF DIMES
1838-0
1868-S
1869
G-4 original S 59
G-f-/VG, original 7
VF-35 40
DIMES
1838-0
F-15
S63
1844
VF-30 very sharp
140
1846
VG-10 "LIBER" shows
86
1847
G-5, Var. 1, high date
6
1847
VF-30, Var. 1. high date
67
1856-0
G-4, 56 over 56
7
1861-S
XF/AU, satiny surfaces
150
1873
F/VG No Arr. Open 3
14
1873-CC
AG+
.290
QUARTERS
1840 VF-30-H $120
1840- 0 F-12, No Drapery 19
1841 VG-8, original 81
1841 VF-25, nice original 120
1841- 0 F-15 40
1846 VF-30 + 29
1848 XF-45 8 over8 160
1850-0 F-12 40
1852-0 F-12. ANACS graded 325
1856-0 VF-30 sharp 32
QUARTERS
1858-0 VF-20+ $ 42
1858-S F-15 100
1860-S VG-8 125
1865 F-15 70
1865-S F-12 original 110
1867-S VF-20 230
1868 VF-30 205
1870 VF-30 120
1871 XF-40, possibly ex-proof 99
1871-CC G/Fair, weak mintmark 115
1873 VF-30 No Arrows. Open 3 80
1873 XF-40 No Arrows, Closed 3 250
1875-S F-12, weak strike 26
1888-S VG/G 7
1888-S F-15 15
HALVES
1857-S VF-30, Mediums $125
1858 G-6 Reverse of 1859 17
1858 VG-F Reverse of 1859 24
1860-S XF-40 80
DOLLARS
1870 G-h/VG original $ 65
All Coins Guaranteed, A.N. A. Grading
Certified Funds Receive Same Day Service, Postpaid.
Personal Checks Must Clear, Add $1.00 Postage.
14 Day Return Privilege if in Original, Unopened Holder.
HARRY E. SMITH • LSCC#566
P.O. Box 705 • South San Francisco, California 94083
Telephone: (415) 583-9908
26
THOSE RARE 1859 MINT-STATE HALF DOLLARS
by
Weimar W. White
Collectors during the mid-19th century paid little attention to collecting
mintmarked coins. The survival of mint-state business issues during this
period was, for the most part, a matter of chance. Many of the specimens
extant today vjere probably initially placed in children's banks, desk,
bureau, and cabinet drawers, and other sundry locations. The coins that
managed to survive in mint state did so largely by accident.
The collecting habits of collectors did not change until the first quarter
of the 20th century when they began to popularize the collecting of branch
mint issues. The earlier numismatists were generally content to pay a
small premium for proof coinage because, to them, these specially
manufactured coins represented a finer quality die-impression than would
normally be possible with a business strike. This philosophy prevailed
among the collectors of the 19th century and is responsible for many of the
rarities seen today.
The author has chosen to examine 1859 half dollars to illustrate these
points. In 1859, there were 748,000 Philadelphia Liberty Seated half dollars
minted, 800 of which were proof. The New Orleans and San Francisco
mints during this year produced 2,834,000 and 566,000 half dollars respec-
tively, but very few now exist in uncirculated condition. The following
figures represent the author's opinion on the numbers of proof and MS
specimens extant.
Proof
1859 60-150
1859-0
1859-S
MS-65 MS-65/63
5-15 30-60
5-15 35-75
7-20 30-60
27
The prices listed in The Official Red Book of United States Coins (1984) are
shown for these dates.
Proof-60 MS-60
1859 $950 $525
1859-0 - $525
1859-S - $900
It is interesting to note that the price of an 1859 Proof-60 coin shown above
is almost twice the value of an MS-60 issue, and yet the ratio of proofs to
mint-state business strikes known is approximately 2:1.
Nevertheless, the true rarity of a gem 1859 business issue was recogniz-
ed by an individual who recently purchased one for $12,000. The beautiful
1859 MS-65 half dollar pictured in this article is not the $12,000 coin men-
tioned, but it does represent one of the finest known.
I must admit that I was inspired to write this article after observing the
magnificent 1859-0 half dollar shown on page 270 of The Gobrecht Journal
Collective Volume Number One.
Pictures of the 1859 MS-65 half dollar were taken by Jim Delabarto.
MIDWEST NUMISMATIC GALLERIES
offers the following coins
HALF DIMES
1837 NoStars, Good, slightly bent $10
1853 With Arrows, XF 35
1856 XF 35
1857 XF-40/40, cleaned, ANACS 30
1863-S F/VF, struck from very worn obverse die 30
1869-S VF 30
1871 XFdark 25
DIMES
1838 0 NoStars, Good, light damage on obverse $15
1876 VF 9
1 885 XF-40/40 ANACS 40
1888-S VF 9
QUARTERS
1876-S VF $15
30 day return, member ANA & LSCC
P.O. BOX 303 • GREENCASTLE, INDIANA 46135
28
J & K RARE COINS
1405 S. 1-45, P.O. BOX 565, CONROE, TEXAS 77305
CONROE 409/539-2000
All coins guaranteed genuine, grading by ANA & Photograde. 30 day returns in
original un-opened 2x2. Help with postage appreciated. Your satisfaction
guaranteed. This list contains all our Dimes in stock, but we have many other Half
Dimes, Quarters, Halves & Dollars. Please send your want list.
Thanks,
Jerry Martin
DIMES
1838-0 No Stars G+ $ 33.00
1838- 0 No Stars VG 39.00
1838 G/AG 4.00
1838 VG 7.00
1838 Dark w/scratch XF 10.00
1838 Large Stars VG 8.00
1838 Scarce Small Stars G . . . 17.00
1839- 0 G 7.00
1840- O Small OG 6.00
18410 G 7.00
1841- 0 G 5.00
1841-0 F 10.00
1841- 0 VF 17.00
18410 Dark VF 15.00
1842 VG+ 5.00
1842 0 F 11.00
1842- 0 VF 29.00
1842-0 VFSmOR6V4 99.00
1842-0 G Large O 6.00
1843 VG-J- 8.00
1844 VF Polished 145.00
1845 G+ 5.00
1845 VG 6.00
1845-0 F 37.50
1845 XF Double Date rare . . . 350.00
1846 F Obverse scratch 105.00
1847 FV2 45.00
1847 F VI obverse
damage 17.00
1848 AG 4.00
1848 G 7.00
1849 F 10.00
1849-0 G 10.00
1849 0 VG/F Large O 20.00
1849- 0 F Small O scarce 10.00
1850- O G 6.00
1851 F 8.00
18510 AG 4.00
1851- 0 VG+ 9.00
1852 0 VG 14.00
1853 G 4.00
1853 F 6.00
1853 VF 15.00
1854 0 G/AG 6.00
1855 F 4.00
1856-0 VG 6.00
DIMES
1856-0 F $ 20.00
1856- 0 G Large Date 9.00
1856 F Small Date 7.00
1856 F Small Date 2.00
1857 F 7.00
1857- 0 VF Medium O 9.25
1858 G 4.00
1858- 0 F Scarce 6.00
1859 G 5.00
1859- 0 F 12.00
1859-S VG 195.00
1861 F Type 1 scarce 15.00
1861 VFType2 18.50
1862 VG+ 5.00
1862-S G 12.00
1868 G 7.00
1869- S AG 6.00
1870- S AG R5 79.00
1873 VF0pen3 45.00
1873- S VF 42.00
1874 G 6.00
1874- S G Scarce coin 17.50
1875- CC AG 5.00
1876 AG 2.00
1876- 00 G Obverse scratch 2.00
1877- CC VF 9.00
1880 AU Reverse Scratch
rare 275.00
1882 F 5.00
1883 F Damaged 2.00
1884 AG 2.00
1885 F 6.50
1886 F/G 4.00
1887 F 6.50
1887 VF 9.00
1888 VG+ 5.00
1889 VG 4.00
1889 VF 8.00
1889-S G 6.00
1891 VF 10.00
1891 F 5.00
1891-0 VG 5.00
1891-0 F 5.00
1891-0/0 AG 11 00
1891-S VG 5,50
29
KROON WINS AHWASH AWARD FOR 1984
John T. Kroon won the Kamal M. Ahwash Literary Award for 1984 for
his contribution "Availability of Liberty Seated Dollars by Grade" that ap-
peared in Issue #29 of the Journal. The Ahwash award is given annually
for the best article to appear in the Journal as voted by the club mem-
bers. This year's award covered the material in Issues #28 to #30 and the
award winner was determined as a result of a vote by club members
during July 1984. A total of 76 ballots were received from club members
who were asked to vote for no more than two articles which they liked
best during the past year. It was decided to allow individuals to vote for
two articles because the large number of choices would likely spread the
votes out among a number of articles. There were 134 votes cast from the
76 ballots. A complete listing of the results is given below.
RANK ARTICLE and AUTHOR VOTES
1. Availability of Liberty Seated Dollars by Grade 19
by John Kroon
2. Kamal M. Ahwash - An Introspective 17
by Thomas E. Baroody
3. Some thoughts on Liberty Seated Halves Part 1 16
by Donald J. Vettel
4. Finding the Elusive "O" Mint Quarters (1840-1891) 13
by Brian Keefe
5. Die Characteristics of the 1870-CC Quarter 12
by Larry W. Briggs
6. The Five Sisters Born 1854 9
by David H. Cohen
7. 1842-0 A Very Good Year 7
by Roy D. Ash
8. The 1842-0 Half Dime 7
by James C. Gray
9. Philadelphia Quarters of 1871 and 1872 5
by Bill Cregan
10. The Least Available Liberty Seated Dimes 5
by Terry Searcy
11. Carson City Seated Dollars - How Many Survive? 4
by John Kroon
12. The 1859-S Dollar 3
by David H. Cohen
13. The Rare 1858 Type 2 Half Dollar 3
by David Lange
30
RANK ARTICLE and AUTHOR VOTES
14. Second Variety Discovered for 1873 Open 3 No Arrows
Half Dollar 3
by David Lange
15. Comments on Vettal's Half Dollar Rarity Analysis 3
by James B. Pryor
16. Dispute on the 1888-S Quarter 2
by Larry Briggs
17. Another Altered Seated Dollar Surfaces 2
by Dennis Garstang
18. Several New Seated Varieties 2
by Bill Fivaz
19. An Unlisted 1854-0 Dime with a Shattered Obverse Die 1
by Al BIythe
20. Another Repunched Date on an 1858-0 Half 1
by Bill Fivaz
With twenty different articles receiving support for the best article
award, it is evident that there are diverse interests and preferences within
the club. However, even one vote for an article indicates that it was im-
portant to at least one reader and therefore a worthy contribution to the
available information on Liberty Seated coinage. The officers wish to
thank all those members who took time to contribute articles during the
past year and we hope that we will continue to receive interesting and
exciting materials in the years ahead.
JOHN GRIFFIN
P.O. Box 26019 • Denver, Colorado 80226
Postpaid • 30 Day Return • (303) 986-0767
DIMES
1860 O VG8/Good (Full rim) $245
1865 Fine 375
1871-CC F/VG 595
1873 CC VG slight bend, BERTY
visible 525
QUARTERS
1849-0 VG-10 IBERTY strong, L
weak, old cleaning $525
QUARTERS
1866 8 VG10/8 full LIBERTY $240
1872 8 8trong F15, rev. rim cut 275
1880 XF-AU, proof 250
1889 XF 40+ cleaned, not too
badly 235
1891-0 Good 8/4, reverse rim
75% defined 85
DOLLARS
1846 0 VF.
$195
31
MAIL BID SALE
HALF DIMES
HALF DIMES
QUARTERS
1.
1837 Sm. Date F
26.
1854-0 F
47.
1847-0 F-VF
2.
1838 VG-F
27.
1856 VF +
48.
1849 F
3.
1838 EF
28.
1857 VF
49.
1849 F VF
4.
1838 0 G-VG
29.
1858 0 VG
50.
1850 O VG
5.
1839 F
30.
1858 0 VF
51.
1853-0 A&R G-VG
6.
1839 EF +
31.
1859 VF-XF
52.
1854-0 F
7.
1839-0 F
32.
1859-0 VF-XF
53.
1855-0 F
8.
1839-0 EF
33.
1864-8 AG
54.
1856-0 VG-F
9.
1840 ND F
34.
1865-S G
55.
1858-0 EF-AU
10.
1841-0 VG
35.
1867-8 G
56.
1858-8 VG-F
11.
1842 EF
36.
1872-S Above EF
57.
1861 VG-F
12.
1843 V-4 F
37.
Lot of 5, G-VG
58.
1870 VG-F
13.
1843 F
1839,49,53,58,69-8
59.
1874-8 VG
14.
1844/184 F
60.
1875-8
15.
1844/184 VG-F
DIMES
61.
1875-CC VF-EF-l- +
16.
1847 F
38.
1841 VG
62.
1876-8 VF-I-
17. 1848-0 G-VG Lg. 0
39.
18410 VG
63.
1877-8 F
18.
1848-0 VF Sm. o
40.
1855 G
64.
1878 F/VG
19.
1849/8 AF
QUARTERS
65.
1888-8 VF-EF
20.
1849/6 AF
41.
1839 F
66.
1891-8 F +
21.
1849-0 VG
42.
1840 WD F
HALVES
22.
18510 G-VG
43.
18410 AF
67.
1840 O F
23.
1852-0 G
44.
1842-0 LD G-VG
68.
1841-0 G
24.
1853 NA VG
45.
1844 0 F VF
69.
1846 0 TD G
25.
1853-0 EF
46.
1847 VF
Usual Mall Bid Rules. Return Privilege. All Coins Guaranteed Genuine.
Ridiculous Bids Not Considered. Thank You.
FRED LOCKE LSCC #665
BOX 301
WALLED LAKE, MICHIGAN 48088
32
UPDATE ON THE 18410 DOUBLED DIE QUARTER
by
Kenneth R. Hill
In March of the 1980 I reported an 1841-0 quarter in Issue #17 of the jour-
nal which was struck from an obverse die which was doubled. Since then I
have corresponded with four club members, checked dealer's stocks and
written to dealers selling high grade examples of the 1841-0 quarter. In
September of 1983 I finally located and purchased an EF-45 example of this
variety from a dealer who had obtained a hoard of twelve 1841-0 quarters
from an old time dealer. The coin that I purchased is pictured in this article
and shows additional doubling over what I reported earlier on the left side
of the pole.
The 1841-0 Doubled Die Quarters known to me are as follows:
Two in EF-AU. Both seen in a local dealer's stock. They were graded as
uncirculated and were in a group of five 1841-0 quarters purchased form
another dealer who had fifteen of this date. All of these coins came from
the pieces unearthed in New Orleans several years ago. The dealer was not
aware that two of his coins were of the doubled die variety.
One EF-45, the piece pictured in this article.
One VF-30/35. A coin reported to me in March of 1982 by a North Carolina
club member. He purchased this piece from an ad in the journal and no
mention was made of the doubled die.
One VF pictued in my article in Issue #17 of the journal. I purchased this
piece in November of 1979.
One F/VF that I purchased in December of 1974.
33
One Fine reported by a California club nnember in Septennber 1983.
One VG + that I purchased from a California dealer in August 1981.
One VG with slight scratches, sent to me for examination by a club
member from Missouri in May 1980.
One Good, reported by the same California club member who owns the
Fine.
I feel that this variety is scarce in all grades. I had previously believed it
to be very rare in high grades but the New Orleans find will probably
change this.
AT THE ANA, DETROIT 1984
The KAMAL M. AHWASH LITERARY AWARD plaque was awarded for the
first time at the Annual Meeting of LSCC at the Detroit convention. The
plaque was won by John T. Kroon for his contribution to the journal during
the past year. The design on the silver plate is shown on the opposite page.
Kam's logo representing "Knowledge Thru Research" expresses the aim of
the club and is an appropriate goal for the award. The silver plate is mount-
ed on a wooden base in the shape of a shield.
Discussion at the club meeting centered around club publications. It
was felt that the increasing number of contributions to the journal would
allow us to expand the format of the publication during the next
year. It was therefore decided to expand the number of pages in each issue
from 32 to 40. Club dues were then increased to provide the funds
necessary for increased printing and postage costs.
Club members felt that the Collective Volume covering the first 18 issues
of the journal was an unqualified success. They also felt this volume was
very helpful in letting the numismatic public know about the club and its
work in studying the Liberty Seated coinage of the 19th century. It was
decided that the club would make plans to prepare a second Collective
Volume covering the material in Issues #19 to #33 of the journal. The second
Collective Volume would represent a five year summary of the information in
the journal and would contain roughly the same number of pages as the first
Collective Volume. Preparation of the plates for the new Collective Volume
would begin immediately following the publication of Issue #33 in July 1985.
On the floor of the convention there were very few Liberty Seated coins
available for observation by the Seated specialist. I do remember seeing
circulated examples of the 1871-CC, 1872-CC and 1873-CC dollars in the
case of one dealer and two nice circulated examples of the 1855-S half
dollar at another table. But overall the selection of Liberty Seated coins
was limited this year at the ANA.
The Editor
34
The
KAMAL M. AH WASH
LITERARY
AWARD
for
1984
PRESENTED TO
JOHN T. KROON
for his contribution
Availability of
Liberty Seated Dollars by Grade
LIBERTY SEATED COLLECTORS CLUB
35
LIBERTY SEATED DOLLARS
1840 Toned XF $350
1840 XF 325
1842 XF 240
1 845 Lightly Toned XF 350
1846 XF 240
1847 Dark Tone XF 200
1849 XF Sharp! 300
1859 Better date. Cleaned XF Planchet
defect at head 250
1859- S Better date. Dark toned XF
Very pretty coin! 500
1860- O Not a better date. VF weak rev 1 30
1865 Shiney XF Cheap at 300
1866 VFobv./XFrev 275
1868 Polished AU 350
1872 Original Dull Toning XF 210
1873 Great "Eye Appeal". Beautifully
toned VF. Slightly better date 200
Post Paid
10-Day Return
ANAMNS-LSCC
DENNIS GARSTANG
P.O. BOX K
BELLE, MISSOURI 65013
314-364-5095 evenings
36
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I would like to make a correction to my original article on the 1841-0
Doubled Die quarter that appeared in Issue #17 of the Journal. When
listing the Seated coins struck from doubled dies in John A. Wexler's
"The Encyclopedia of Doubled Dies - Volume I", I said that he had listed
eleven Seated coins, but I only mentioned ten. The one I omitted was a
twenty cent piece.
Kenneth R. Hill
LSCC #225
I enjoyed Terry Searcy's article "The Least Available Seated Dimes"
that appeared in Issue #30 of the Journal. The amount of work required to
produce this article deserves recognition. Terry also brought out two im-
portant points. (1) Availability is difficult to assess due to many
marketing methods. Thus do not depend on only one source of infor-
mation to determine rarity. (2) High prices bring out more examples of
many dates. Therefore, that high priced coin may not be rare after all.
These are important lessons for any date or variety collector.
Scott G. Grieb
LSCC #740
I would like to respond to Larry Briggs' article entitled "Dispute on the
1888-S Quarter" in which he comments that this issue is "not rare or even
remotely scarce". Larry completely missed the point of my article on the
scarcity/rarity study of the 1888-S quarter which appeared in Issue #27.
First, the primary intent was to show the condition scarcity/rarity of this
issue as compared to the 1878-S, 1884, 1888 and 1889 quarters in proof
and/or mint state and to point out that I believe it is undervalued in Red
Book. Even though Larry claims to have located 53 of the 1888-S quarters
in six months, this does not refute the condition rarity estimates given for
the 1888-S in my article. Should Larry decide to investigate the
availability of the other quarters mentioned, I think he would be surprised
to find out that the 1884, 1888 and 1889 dates are readily available, par-
ticularly in proof. It is because I take numismatic scholarship seriously
that I decided to write the article on the availability of these quarters in
their various states of preservation. I disagree with Larry that "raindrops
are like opinions" as this inference applies to researched estimates given
for coins.
Weimar White
LSCC #660
37
Reviewing back issues of the Journal I discovered your article on the
1839-0 half dime with shattered reverse in Issue 23. I now own a piece
which would be an immediate predecessor of yours as a die state. My
piece has the complete H - shaped configuration of breaks through the
center as well as the break in the E of AMERICA. My coin lacks only the
breaks from the D in DIME out through the I to the rim and the break
through the second A in AMERICA to the rim.
I enjoyed David Cohen's excellent article on the 1859-S dollar in the
last issue of the Journal. Lot #1805 in the Steve Ivy Ralston Sale of May
1983, which I purchased, was an 1859-S dollar with the identical recutting
on the 1 and 8. My piece, grades XF and shares all the other die charac-
teristics described except that it lacks the meandering reverse die
cracks. Harry Salyards
LSCC #505
I've read with much interest the running comments in the last few Jour-
nals on the relative scarcity of the 1888-S quarter. Being an avid quarter
collector for the last 14 years, I would be more inclined to agree with Bill
Cregan's observations. The key word here is "choice". In fact Bill was
simply saying what I've observed for years, this date is virtually unob-
tainable in choice circulated condition. A well struck XF-45 or AU-50
specimen is currently undervalued. As a date the coin isn't rare and as
Larry Briggs stated, you could accumulate literally dozens of them you
wouldn't want in your collection. During the past 14 years I've only en-
countered three specimens that were suitable for my collection. Up to XF-
40 the date is what I'll call common, at XF-45 it becomes scarce and in
AU very scarce. If you're also looking for well struck non-porous
specimens then you can expect to probably double your efforts and cost.
I personally feel that articles such as Bill Cregan's on his experience in
locating various dates in specific grades and conditions are very
beneficial to the club and would encourage other members to do the
same. So much for another raindrop. Roy Ash
LSCC #159
I ordered some coins from a bullion dealer recently among which was
an 1871-S quarter in AG. Upon receiving the coins, I found the obverse of
the 1871-S to be a full good with the reverse more of a fair with almost all
of the lettering worn away. At first glance the mintmark seemed too large
and it was not near the feather tip of the arrow, the mintmark position
found on all San Francisco quarters from 1866 to 1874. Closer
examination showed this "S" to in fact be a "C" with a small mark under
it. Looking to the left of the feather tip I found the top of the other "C"
and was thus the surprised owner of a rare 1871-CC quarter instead of a
scarce 1871-S. Had I not studied the mintmark positioning of San Fran-
cisco quarters I too probably would never have known what I had.
Harry E. Smith
LSCC #566
38
HALF DIMES
1839 No Drapery AU .. .$105
1840-O With Drapery VF ... 105
1848 IVIedium Date VF 19
1848 Large Date Ch.XF . .130
1849 9over8XF/AU 150
1851-0 VF/XF 45
1864-S AU 325
DIMES
1840-O No Drapery VF ...$ 37
1859- 0 VF/F 20
1873 With Arrows Fine ... 16
1873- S With Arrows VF 54
1874- S With Arrows Ch.XF. 170
TWENTY CENTS
1875 AU $410
1875- CC VG 47
1875-CC Fine 80
1875-CC VF 130
1875-S S/S ANACS 40/40 . .140
QUARTERS
1850-O VF $ 88
1851 Ch.VF 140
1860- O MS-60+ 945
1869 AU ex-proof coin .. .525
1874-S With Arrows Fine .. .36
1878-CC Fine 49
1879 Ch.AU 335
HALVES
1843 Ch.AU $115
1855-0 With Arrows, AU .. .215
1857 VF 32
1858 XF 50
1859 Ch.AU 125
1861 Fine 22
1876-S Toned Ch.AU 115
1878 Slight Toning Ch.AU120
1887 Ch.AU + + Super
Slider 825
1889 Ch.AU, Slight
Toning 625
DOLLARS
1840 VF $295
1844 VF 345
1844 AU, Toning 875
1846-0 XF 550
1846-0 Ch.AU 1340
1847 AU 575
1848 AU-polished 750
1849 VF 345
1849 NiceAU 685
1850-O Strong AU, some
dark toning, Rare
in grade 1750
1857 ANACS 50/50
Polished 725
1860-O XF 255
1863 AU - Impaired Proof 975
1872-S VF 575
1872-S XF 760
1) 10 Day Return Privilege with Coin in Original Holder,
For Any Reason
2) All Orders Postage Free.
3) Personal Checks Must Clear.
4) Member ANA, FUN, MSNS and CSNS
FRANK LEISTER RARE COINS • LSCC#746
P.O. Box 252 • Vero Beach, Florida 32961
(305)562-1066 or (305)562-3977 7 Days & Evenings (9a.m. -9 p.m.)
39
TREASURER'S REPORT
1983-1984
Beginning Balance - August 12, 1983 $1550.43
Receipts:
New Members 574.50
Renewal Memberships 2380.25
Advertising 725.00
Magazine Sales 18.00
Donations 25.50
Interest Income 156.96
3880.21
Total Available $5430.64
Disbursements:
Printing Expense 2164.00
Postage & Office Expenses 1340.82
ANA Membership Dues 18.00
Advertising Refund 20.00
Total Spent 3542.82
Cash Balance - July 21, 1984 $1887.82
James R. Skwarek
Sec./Treas. LSCC
40
U. S. COINS
TOP QUALITY
TOP RARITY
1 Ur RAHI 1 1
BOUGHT AND SOLD
WRITE FOR QUOTES
COMMISSIONS EXECUTED
AT MOST
MAJOR AUCTIONS - 5%
FEE
boK^NiiMisMinists]
JULIAN LEIDMAN
8433 GEORGIA AVE.
SILVER SPRINGS, MD. 20910
TEL. 301 ■ 585-8467
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
LiBERTy Seated Collectors Club
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
ZIP
I'M A COLLECTORD
DEALERD
COLLECTOR/DEALERD
YOU MAYD MAY NOTQ
SEND MY NAME AND ADDRESS TO OTHER CLUB MEMBERS.
I COLLECT BY DATE SEATED HALF DIMESD DIMESD
QUARTERSD HALF DOLLARSD DOLLARSD ALL SEATEDD
SIGNATURE
DATE
Membership Fee - 11.00 for first year dues and initiation
fee. Fill in the above and mail with $11.00 to:
James Skwarek • P.O. Box 21813
Tuckaway Station • Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53221
CP
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
We ask that you notify us as soon as possible when you move or change
your mailing address. It seems that we always have one or two Journals
returned to us for improper address when a member has moved to a new
Ickcation. In such cases we must wait for the member to contact us and
pi'ovide us with the new address. To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving
the Journal and to assist us on keeping our mailing list current, we ask that
you inform us as soon as possible of any change of address.
Your comments on any of the articles, ads or club policies are invited.
This is your club and the Officers are dedicated to operating it on behalf
of the members. Address any comments to:
John McCloskey
Editor, Gobrecht Journal
5718 King Arthur Drive
Kettering, Ohio 45429
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